TABLE OF CONTENTS Robert L. Allen
Michael J. Cunningham
Hewlett-Packard Communications Test Solutions Group
Communications network test and measurement are activities undertaken to characterize the operation of networks and network elements. Measurement determines performance parameters, either on an as-needed basis or continuously via dedicated monitoring equipment. Test adds the comparison of measured parameters to accept/ reject thresholds, or the application of controlled stimuli. Testing and measurement contribute to advancements in communications networks by providing the quantitative indications of whether network elements and services are performing as expected during the various phases in a network s life.
The life of the network consists of four major phases:
A development phase, wherein new network equipment and services are designed and debugged.
A production phase, wherein the design is replicated in substantial volume.
An installation and commissioning activity, wherein new equipment is put into operation, usually expanding an existing network.
An operational phase, wherein the network equipment or service is in the field and needs to be kept in good working order. This phase has two test activities, one to monitor network health and one to repair problems.
Test and measurement instruments and systems provide important information needed to manage processes in all of these phases.
Generally speaking, each phase consists of complex processes that need to...
